The production of first-class active ingredient cosmetics based on social responsibility and respect for nature has always been a central concern of Santaverde. Founder Sabine Beer was already convinced that a high, organic quality of the ingredients determines the effectiveness of a product on the skin and the entire organism.
This is why we set the highest standards in the selection of natural ingredients for our organic skin care and try, wherever possible, to source them from controlled organic farming, fair trade or wild collection. The highly effective basis of our natural cosmetic formulas is pure aloe vera juice from our own controlled organic cultivation. Even pure juice from the inner leaf of the aloe vera plant is a powerful complex of active ingredients for the skin and the entire organism.
We supplement this lead active ingredient with intelligently combined plant oils and extracts as well as high-tech natural substances for a unique effect on the skin - regenerating, moisturising and binding, soothing and protecting, depending on the skin's needs.
In our active ingredient glossary, we have compiled the most important lead active ingredients of our organic skin care and their effects on the skin.
A
Acai oil
INCI: Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil
Oil obtained from the purple-black fruits (açaí berries) of the açaí palm, native to Brazil, is impressively rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids (omega-3,omega-6, omega-9), plant sterols and vitamin C. It neutralises free radicals, revitalises and strengthens the skin’s natural properties.
Almond oil
INCI: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil
Sweet almond kernel oil is rich in oleic acid, and vitamins E and A. It prevents dry skin, and has a nourishing and regenerative effect. It is highly effective at combating skin redness.
Aloe Vera flower extract
INCI: Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract
Once a year, between January and April, our aloe barbadensis ‘Miller’ plants produce vibrant yellow flowers at our Santaverde Finca in Andalusia. Each of the lanceolate perennial plants grow numerous small calyxes containing precious nectar. As soon as they are ripe, the flowers are carefully harvested by hand, sorted and pressed to produce an antioxidative elixir in the Santeverde Laboratorio, surrounded by aloe vera fields. Carefully harvesting and processing the flowers ourselves by hand is the only way to guarantee that the aloe vera flowers retain all of their precious active compounds.
The scientifically proven antioxidative effect of the nectar from the flowers helps protect the skin against oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature skin aging. Polyphenols, a group of powerful antioxidants, found in the flower’s nectar work to neutralise free radicals, effectively strengthening the skin barrier in a natural way.
* see dissertation ‘Phytochemisches Screening der Blüten von Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. (Aloe barbadensis Mill.) und Bestimmung ihrer antioxidativen Kapazität’ by Dr. Shirin Keyhanian, Hamburg, 2008.
Aloe Vera juice
INCI: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Aloe vera juice contains numerous ingredients in the form of plant compounds, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, secondary phytochemicals in addition to mono and polysaccharides, to name but a few. The quality of aloe vera juice is measured based on its aloverose content. This unique molecule is only found in gel produced by the aloe vera barbadenis ‘Miller’ plant. A high aloverose content indicates a high concentration of powerful vital substances, resulting in a deeper effect on the skin. The particularly high concentration of aloverose found in our plants can be attributed to the microclimate in Andalusia and the highest possible preservation of the plant’s natural characteristics during cultivation and processing. Pure aloe vera juice nourishes and binds moisture to promote natural skin regeneration, revitalise cells, and calm irritated skin. In place of conventional water, we use aloe vera juice as the main component in our cosmetic products.
Andiroba oil
INCI: Carapa Guaianensis Seed Oil
Liminoids found in the seeds of the Brazilian andiroba tree have an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and impressive regenerative effect. High concentrations of unsaturated fatty acids deeply nourish the skin. Ideal for sensitive and dry skin.
Apple extract
INCI: Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract
Apple extract contains vitamin C, polyphenols and quercetin. It helps to protect against oxidative stress, strengthens cells, balances oil production and revitalises the skin.
Apple juice
INCI: Pyrus Malus Fruit Juice
Apple juice contains vitamin C, polyphenols and quercetin. It helps protect against oxidative stress, strengthens cells, balances oil production, revitalises the skin and gently exfoliates dead skin cells.
Apricot kernel oil
INCI: Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil
Delicately nutty-scented oil obtained from apricot kernels helps to revive the skin’s elasticity and to restore, calm and regenerate the skin thanks to its high concentration of omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids (i.e. linoleic and oleic acid).
Argan oil
INCI: Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Argan oil, derived from the nuts of the aragania spinosa tree, has an antioxidative, nourishing, soothing and cell-stimulating effect thanks to its high concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, plant sterols and vitamin E.
Avocado oil
INCI: Persea Gratissima Oil
Avocado oil contains an impressively high concentration of oleic acid, plant sterols, lecithin, vitamins E and A, which nourish the skin, regenerate cells, strengthen the skin barrier and keep extremely dry and scaly skin stay looking smooth and supple.
B
Babassu oil
INCI: Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil
The semi-dry oil found in seeds obtained from the babassu palm, native to Brazil, is rich in lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid and oleic acid, resulting in its calming, anti-inflammatory and moisturising effect.
Bakuchiol
INCI: Bakuchiol
Made from the seeds and leaves of the Indian Babchi plant, Bakuchiol is a herbal and mild alternative to retinol. Retinol is a form of vitamin A and is known for its regenerative, skin rejuvenating and anti-inflammatory effects. However, retinol often causes irritation or allergies. Bakuchiol has the same positive properties as retinol, but is much better tolerated by sensitive skin. The effect spectrum of bakuchiol ranges from regenerating and collagen-stimulating to anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, soothing, sebum-regulating and balancing, making it so versatile in skin care.
Brazil Nut oil
INCI: Bertholletia Excelsa Seed Oil
Oil obtained from the seeds of the Brazil nut tree, native to the Amazon rainforest, have a moisturising, antioxidative and nourishing effect thanks to its linoleic acid, vitamin E, vitamines B, plant sterol, mineral and selenium content.
Bromelain
INCI: Bromelain
The mild fruit enzyme bromelain found in pineapples removes skin scales and dirt particles and refines the skin.
Butcher's broom extract
INCI: Ruscus Aculeatus Root Extract
The extract obtained from the roots of the butcher’s broom shrub is rich in saponins and tannins. It stimulates cell metabolism, tightens the skin and removes blockages.
C
Cacao butter
INCI: Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter
Cacao butter, the vegetable fat extracted from the cacao bean, is rich in oleic, palmitic and stearic acids. It protects the skin’s sensitive barrier, and restores and nourishes the skin. It gives the skin a velvety-soft feeling.
Cashew juice
INCI: Anacardium Occidentale Extract
The vibrant orange fruits of the cashew tree, cashew apples, are rich in vitamins, minerals, and, above all, antioxidants (vitamin C, polyphenols, carotenoids). Cashew apple juice effectively combats free radicals and oxidative stress, which lead to premature skin aging.
Cassia Alata leaf extract
INCI: Cassia Alata Leaf Extract
The extract obtained from the leaves of the tropical senna alata tree, also known as cassia alata, contains a high concentration of flavanoids and helps to repair skin damage caused by sun exposure.
Clay
INCI: Kaolin
Mineral clay helps to eliminate toxins, mineralise the skin and release excess sebum.
Coconut oil
INCI: Cocos Nucifera Oil
Fairtrade virgin coconut oil used by us is rich in lauric and myristic acids and is highly nourishing, preserves the skin’s elasticity, protects the sensitive hydro-lipid balance and soothes skin.
Collagen Amino acids
INCI: Collagen Amino Acids
The collagen amino acids produced by enzymatic hydrolysis from corn, soy and wheat protein promote moisture retention in the skin and have a positive effect on skin density.
Cottonseed oil
INCI: Gossypium Hirsutum Seed Oil
Due to the fatty acids it contains, cottonseed oil, which is made from dried cottonseeds, has a skin-caring, soothing, smoothing and moisturising effect. It promotes cell renewal and helps to make rough and chapped skin smooth and supple again.
Cupuacu butter
INCI: Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter
Plant butter obtained from the seeds of the Brazilian cupuaçu tree contains oelic acid, stearic acid and plant sterols, melts easily on the skin and is quickly absorbed. It boosts the skin’s elasticity and moisture retention and has a natural repair effect.
E
Elderflower extract
INCI: Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
Elderflower extract is rich in flavonoids, vitamin C and anthocyanin, and has a soothing, anti-irritation and restorative effect on the skin.
Evening Primrose oil
INCI: Oenothera Biennis Oil
Oil obtained from the seeds of the evening primrose plant is rich in linoleic and gamma-linoleic acid. It helps to soothe and calm irritated and inflamed skin, strengthens the skin barrier, is highly effective against skin redness and promotes the regeneration of the skin’s lipid structure. Especially recommended for dry, flaky and neurodermic skin.
Eyebright extract
INCI: Euphrasia Officinalis Extract
The aucubin and flavanoids found in eyebright extract produce a soothing, anti-inflammatory, calming effect, and help to reduce swelling.
G
Gluconolactone
INCI: Gluconolactone
Suitable for highly sensitive skin types, the PHA acid gluconolactone is derived from the fermentation of dextrose obtained from corn. It gently exfoliates the skin, strengthens the skin barrier and simulates cell regeneration.
Grape seed oil
INCI: Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil
Grape seed oil has an antioxidative effect and maintains the skin’s natural elasticity thanks to its polyphenols, vitamin E, lecithin, linoleic acid and proanthocyanidins. It absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky feeling.
Grapefruit oil
INCI: Citrus Grandis Peel Oil
Grapefruit essential oil has a stimulative and reinvigorating effect in addition to a fresh fragrance.
Green tea extract
INCI: Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
The caffeine, polyphenols and tannins found in green tee help to neutralise free radicals, stimulate cell metabolism, tighten the skin and remove blockages.
Guarana extract
INCI: Paullinia Cupana Seed Extract
Guarana seed extract, obtained from the seeds of the guarana fruit native to the Amazon basin has a stimulating effect on the skin’s metabolism, promotes circulation and reenergises the skin thanks to its tannin, proanthocyanidin, caffeine, theophylline and theobromine content.
H
Hyaluronic acid
INCI: Sodium Hyaluronate
Hyaluronic acid, biotechnologically obtained through fermentation, hydrates and plumps the skin, improves the skin’s moisture retention, protects the skin barrier, promotes elasticity, and helps to smoothen and tighten skin.
I
Ivy extract
INCI: Hedera Helix Leaf/Stem Extract
Ivy leaf extract contains saponins, caffeic acid derivatives and flavanoids that stimulate cell metabolism, promote circulation and remove blockages.
J
Jojoba oil
INCI: Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil
Oil obtained from the seeds of the drought-resistant jojoba shrub has a waxy consistency, similar to sebum found in the skin. It is rich in gadoleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid, and contains vitamins B and E, provitamin A, minerals and simmondsin. Jojoba oil soothes the skin, helps it to maintain moisture and boosts elasticity.
L
Large-headed Atractylodes, Milk-vetch Root, Sickle hare's ear
INCI: Atractyloides Macrocephala Root Extract, Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract, Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract
The active substance complex obtained from the roots of the large-headed atractylodes, milk-vetch root and sickle hare's ear is rich in polysaccharides, triterpenoid saponins, isoflavonoids, amino acids, fatty acids and minerals. It minimises the emergence of pigmentations and helps to prevent reoccurrences. It also improves the skin’s evenness and glow, stimulates collagen synthesis and strengthens the skin barrier.
Lactobacillus ferment lysate
INCI: Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate
The natural probiotics obtained biotechnologically through the fermentation of lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus) promote cell renewal, improve the skin's barrier function and also strengthen the skin microbiome.
Lavender flower extract
INCI: Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract
Oil derived from lavender blossom has a calming, anti-irritation and relaxing effect on the skin.
Lavender oil
INCI: Lavandula Angustifolia Oil
Essential lavender oil calms the skin and reduces irritation.
Lemon oil
INCI: Citrus Limon Peel Oil
Essential Lemon peel oil has a reinvigorating and refreshing effect in addition to a fresh fragrance.
Lemon verbena extract
INCI: Lippia Citriodora Leaf Extract
Lemon verbena extract contains caffeic acid derivatives and flavanoids that have a refreshing, soothing and calming effect on the skin.
Lemon verbena hydrolate
INCI: Lippia Citriodora Flower/Leaf/Stem Water
The hydrolate produced by steam distillation of the dried or fresh blossoms of lemon verbena provides a fresh, invigorating, slightly citrusy fragrance.
Lemongrass oil
INCI: Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil
Lemongrass essential oil has a stimulative and toning effect in addition to a fresh fragrance.
Linden blossom hydrolate
INCI: Tilia Cordata Flower Water
The hydrolate, which is obtained by steam distillation from the blossoms of the linden or lime tree, has a moisturising, clarifying, anti-inflammatory and soothing effect. Redness of the skin is thus alleviated.
Lycopene from tomatoes
INCI: Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Oil
The oily extract obtained from tomatoes is a highly antioxidative carotenoid that protects sensitive DNA found in cell nuclei against free radicals and improves skin firmness.
M
Mandarin oil
INCI: Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil
Mandarin essential oil, obtained from mandarin peel, has a thymoleptic and harmonising effect in addition to a fresh fragrance.
Mango kernel butter
INCI: Mangifera Indica Seed Butter
Mango kernel butter has a soothing effect and helps to preserve the skin’s natural elasticity thanks to its oleic and stearic acid content.
Milk Thistle seed oil
INCI: Silybum Marianum Seed Oil
Milk thistle seed oil is rich in unsaturated fatty assets (linoleic and oleic acid), strengthens the skin barrier and deeply nourishes and restores skin.
Mineral pigments
INCI: Mica
Mica is a fine mineral powder and has an optical soft-focus effect.
O
Omega-9 Ceramide from olive oil
INCI: Olive Oil Aminopropanediol Esters
Omega-9 ceramide extracted from olive oil protect the skin’s collagen fibres, minimise loss of elasticity and help to strengthen and tighten skin.
P
Pansy blossom
INCI: Viola Tricolor Flower Extract
Pansy blossom extract contains tannins and salicylate, which help to reduce inflammation, cleanse the skin, regulate sebum and have an anti-bacterial effect.
Paracress extract
INCI: Acmella Oleracea Extract
Paracress extract, obtained from the Brazilian jambú plant helps to relax tense facial muscles and has a calming and smoothing effect on the skin thanks to its spilanthol (also known as organic botox) content.
Passion fruit extract
INCI: Passiflora Incarnata Herb Extract
Passion flower herbal extract boosts the skin’s elasticity, activates collagen production and protects the skin thanks to its concentration of flavonoids, essential oils and coumarin derivatives.
Passion fruit seed oil
INCI: Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil
Passion fruit seed oil is rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E. It helps to boost the skin’s elasticity, promotes collagen productions and moisture retention, and strengthens the skin barrier.
Plum kernel oil
INCI: Prunus Domestica Seed Oil
The organic plum kernel oil produced by gentle cold pressing has a gentle marzipan note and is rich in unsaturated oleic acid and linoleic acid. In its fatty acid composition, it is similar to apricot kernel oil and almond oil. The oil protects the skin from drying out and has a nourishing effect.
R
Raspberry seed oil
INCI: Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil
Raspberry seed oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids such as alpha-linoleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid. It promotes the skin’s elasticity, nourishes the skin, protects cells and has an antioxidative effect. It is particularly well suited to the treatment of mature and sensitive skin.
Rockrose extract
INCI: Cistus Incanus Flower Leaf/Stem Extract
Rockrose extract is rich in polyphenols and has an antioxidative and regenerative effect.
Rose blossom hydrolate
INCI: Rosa Damascena Flower Water
Discreet rose blossom hydrolate has a calming, balancing and anti-bacterial effect on the skin.
Rosehip seed oil
INCI: Rosa Canina Fruit Oil
Rosehip seed oil is rich in alpha-linoleic acid, linoleic acid and antioxidative carotenoids. It contains essential minerals and vitamins such as zinc, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, copper, phosphorous, provitamin a (beta-carotene), vitamin E, vitamin B1 and B2, and vitamin C. It helps to reduce redness, alleviates skin irritation and inflammation, has a soothing and regenerative effect, and is quickly absorbed by the skin without leaving a film (dry oil).
Rosemary hydrolate
INCI: Rosmarinus Officinalis Flower Water
Rosemary hydrolate has an anti-bacterial, revitalising, clarifying and inflammation-regulating effect thanks to its tannin and flavonoid content.
Rosemary leaf extract
INCI: Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract
Rosemary leaf extract has an anti-bacterial, revitalising, clarifying and inflammation-regulating effect thanks to its tannin and flavonoid content.
S
Sea Buckthorn extract
INCI: Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract
Sea buckthorn extract helps to protect cells, regenerate the skin and reduce inflammation thanks to its high vitamin C content (higher than in lemons), carotenoids and flavonoids.
Sea Buckthorn oil
INCI: Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil
The oil from sea buckthorn berries, obtained through particularly gentle CO2 extraction, has an antioxidant, cell-protective, regenerating and anti-inflammatory effect due to its high vitamin C content (higher than in lemon), carotenoids, flavonoids and palmitoleic acid.
Seaweed extract
INCI: Chondrus Crispus Powder
Red algae extract helps to regulate the skin’s moisture levels, soothes the skin and reduces irritation thanks to its polysaccharide (primarily carrageenan) content. Marine algae extract also acts as a gelling agent.
Sesame oil
INCI: Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil
Sesame seed oil has a nourishing and regenerative effect thanks to its oleic acid, linoleic acid and lecithin content. It penetrates deep into the skin and acts as an optimal massage oil.
Shea butter
INCI: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Shea butter helps to nourish and regenerate the seed thanks to its linoleic acid, omega-3 fatty acid, plant sterol and vitamin E content. It demonstrates excellent skin smoothing properties.
Silica
INCI: Silica
Silica, also known as silicic acid, is made from quartz sand and has an optical soft-focus effect.
Squalane
INCI: Squalane
Squalane found in olive oils maintains the skin’s natural moisture levels and leaves skin feeling soft. Especially recommended for sensitive, dry, chapped or flaky skin.
Spirulina extract
INCI: Spirulina Maxima Extract
The extract from dried spirulina algae is rich in polysaccharides, peptides and calcium. It stimulates the skin's collagen production, strengthens its resistance and increases skin density. The skin becomes firm, smooth and supple.
T
Thistle oil
INCI: Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil
The semi-dry oil from safflower seeds contains vitamins E, A and K as well as exceptionally high amounts of linoleic acid. It is very light, absorbs quickly and has a mattifying effect, which makes it particularly recommended for oily skin.
Thyme hydrolate
INCI: Thymus Vulgaris Flower Water
Thyme hydrolate helps to reduce inflammation, regulate sebum, clarify and revitalise skin thanks to its antioxidative flavonoids and tannins.
Tiger grass extract
INCI: Centella Asiatica Flower/ Leaf/ Stem Extract
Tiger grass extract contains saponins and asiaticoside, which has a tightening, anti-bacterial and tissue repair effect on the skin and helps to boost elasticity.
Tiger nut oil
INCI: Cyperus Esculentus Root Oil
The oil obtained from the tubers of the tigernut tree (cyperus esculentus) is rich in oelic acid and vitamin E, and helps to promote elasticity, protect cells and has an antioxidative effect.
V
Vanilla extract
INCI: Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
The extract from the dried vanilla pods, obtained by means of particularly gentle CO2 extraction, provides a delicate fragrance thanks to the aromatic substance vanillin.
W
Willow bark extract
INCI: Salix Nigra Bark Extract
Willow bark extract is rich in salicylates and tannins. It helps to promote cell regeneration, and has a horn-dissolving and antibacterial effect.
Z
Zinc lactate
INCI: Zinc Lactate
Zinc lactate obtained through the fermentation of zinc salt and lactic acid has a deep, antibacterial, inflammation-regulating, sebum-regulating and tissue repair effect.
